Serving the Lord….

 

“I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant will also be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.” *

The small church that met all summer in our backyard is now continuing to meet every Saturday morning online. A few weeks ago, it was suggested that we come up with a group service project. No one had any ideas; however, at our last meeting a person shared that her father was experiencing loneliness after losing his wife at Thanksgiving. He was living alone, some distance away from his three adult children. She wanted us to pray for her father, which we did.

Afterwards, another member asked for his address and said she’d be happy to send him a card. Others also volunteered.  Encouraging and communicating with this 95-year-old newly widowed man was something we could each take part in from our own homes. His daughter seemed so appreciative and thanked the rest of the group profusely.

Later that day, Al and I had to run a few errands, including going to the post office. Since the church we attend on the same block, I asked if we could put some supplies in the small food “pantry” that stands on a pole near the sidewalk.

It was fine with Al; so, I gathered up some cans of food, granola bars, packets of hot chocolate, oatmeal, tea, coffee and Christmas candy too. When we pulled into a parking place in front of the church, there was someone standing at the “Little Free Pantry.”

 I put on my mask and got out of the car. Immediately the young woman backed away. She didn’t look familiar and seemed a little embarrassed. I told her that it was okay and that she could take whatever she needed. When she motioned for me to go ahead, I emptied out my bag of food.

 “Here, take what you need. You can have this bag to put the things in.”

 As I went to the car, she returned to her examination of the food pantry, taking the granola bars and packets of food along with some things from a large cooler at the base of the pole. Then she turned, gave a wave and a big smile!

That was a very special encounter and an easy service project, only requiring giving up a little food and time. Spreading some kindness in the name of Jesus not only blesses others but also blesses us!

According to our pastor, the pantry “has become an immense source of blessing—for those with a need for food assistance and for those with the desire to give. It is filled and emptied almost every day.” Built by a local Girl Scout Troop, he said it was an “easy yes!” when approached by the troop leaders to have it installed on the church property.

The pantry and nearby picnic tables have become a drop-off point for a newly organized Facebook group whose mission is to connect local needs and resources.

Recently food has also been donated by two other organizations and as well as financial assistance from individuals, necessitating the addition of a large cooler.

            A second “Little Free Pantry” is in the process of being built by another volunteer, with the materials donated by a lumber company in the area. What started as a Girl Scout project has turned into a major ministry for the church. “Blessings come in and blessings go out—without any need of documentation, paperwork or proof of need,” added Pastor Zack.

Service projects don’t have to involve a lot of planning and effort…opportunities to serve come along in all forms. Phone calls, notes and food or other donations are particularly needed during a pandemic! As we seek the Lord for ways to serve and offer ourselves willingly to Him, He will direct us. May we be quick to follow!

*John 12:24-26NIV